From Salta: Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados Hike

Exploring Northern Argentina’s Natural Wonders with a Day Trip from Salta

Traveling through the rugged terrains of Salta Province, this full-day tour takes you to some of the most visually striking sites in northern Argentina. For about $43 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12.5 hours exploring the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats, the vibrant Seven Colors Hill of Purmamarca, and enjoying a scenic hike at Los Colorados. The tour is a great way to see a blend of natural beauty and local culture without the hassle of planning your own route.

Two things we especially like: first, the chance to walk on the enormous white salt plains—a surreal experience that’s unlike anything else. Second, the stops at Seven Colors Hill offer a photographer’s dream of multi-layered, brightly hued mountains that change with the sun. A potential consideration is the long travel time—it’s a full 12.5 hours—which might feel a bit exhausting for some travelers. Still, if you’re eager to see these iconic landscapes, this tour offers excellent value and a well-organized itinerary that’s perfect for curious explorers.

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, authentic local culture, and stunning landscapes but don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s particularly good for those who prefer guided excursions with informative guides, as reviews highlight knowledgeable, attentive guides who speak both Spanish and English.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes include salt flats, colorful mountains, and volcanic peaks.
• Well-organized tour with hotel pickup, transportation, and bilingual guides.
• Long but rewarding day—ideal for those who want to see a lot in a single trip.
• Authentic experience with opportunities to learn about local culture and wildlife.
• Value for money considering the sights and guided service provided.
• Consider the altitude—reaches over 4,200 meters, so be prepared for the high elevation.

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A Detailed Look at the Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados Hike Tour

Starting the Journey: From Salta to the High Desert

We begin early in the morning, with hotel pickups typically between 6:30 and 7:15 AM. The actual pickup process can sometimes involve a bit of coordination, especially if your hotel is on the outskirts, but most travelers find the logistics smooth enough. As we leave behind Salta’s urban charm, the bus winds through the scenic towns of Yala, Volcán, and Tumbaya. Along the way, the landscape shifts from city streets to expansive open spaces, giving a sense of the enormous scale of this part of Argentina.

One of the first highlights is the viewpoint of Seven Colors Hill. Here, the layered, multi-hued mountain is illuminated beautifully by the sun, revealing shades of red, yellow, purple, and green. The views from the lookout are well worth the brief stop, and many travelers appreciate the chance to take photos of something so uniquely vibrant.

Purmamarca: The Colorful Village at the Foot of the Mountain

Next, the bus makes its way to Purmamarca, a small village known for its picturesque streets and the iconic Seven Colors Hill looming at its edge. The town itself offers a glimpse into local life, with craft markets and traditional buildings lining narrow alleyways. Here, you’ll have about two hours to explore at your leisure—ample time to wander, grab a snack, or pick up a souvenir.

A favorite part of the trip is the ascent along Cuesta del Lipán, Cuesta del Saladillo, and Abra de Potrerillos. These winding roads take you to altitudes of about 4,150 meters (around 13,600 feet), so travelers should be mindful of altitude sickness and bring water or coca leaves offered by guides to help acclimate.

The Spectacle of Salinas Grandes

The highlight of the day arrives at Salinas Grandes, one of the world’s largest salt flats. Spanning miles and miles of white expanse, the salt flats create a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly. As you step onto the salt crust, the vastness and brightness can be breathtaking. Many visitors describe it as “a must-see,” and the reviews confirm it’s worth every minute.

Spend about 45 minutes here walking, taking photos, and experiencing the silence and vastness. Local guides at the entrance often offer perspective photos, such as jumping or holding props, which can make for memorable keepsakes.

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Lunch and Cultural Discoveries in Purmamarca

After the salt flats, the bus returns to Purmamarca for an optional lunch break—note that meals are not included in the tour price. Several travelers recommend exploring the small town’s craft market or enjoying a local meal, which is a chance to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. Some reviews mention the limited options in the town, but most find it sufficient for a quick bite.

Los Colorados: An Optional Hike and Wildlife Spotting

In the later part of the day, the tour offers the chance to take an optional short hike at Los Colorados. While the hike itself is brief, it provides a closer look at the striking red and ochre cliffs, and the chance to see wildlife like vicunas and llamas grazing nearby. It’s a good opportunity for those who want a bit of walking in nature, though the hike is not very long or strenuous.

Returning to Salta

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus begins the return journey, arriving back in Salta late in the evening—usually around 8 PM. While this makes for a long day, most travelers agree it’s packed with unforgettable sights.

Transportation and Guides: Comfort and Knowledge

The tour’s transportation is typically in a bus or minivan, depending on group size. The vehicles are generally clean and comfortable, with some reviews noting USB charging points—helpful for a long day of travel. Drivers are described as careful, providing a sense of safety on the sometimes rough dirt roads.

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Many reviews mention guides who speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible no matter your language skills. One reviewer appreciated their guide’s efforts, saying, “They gave lots of explanations, organized things well, and took care of the group,” which is exactly what you want from a guided tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off (if booked with that option), transportation, and a bilingual guide. Remember that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is advisable, especially since the stops are somewhat spaced out. There’s also a small entrance fee (around $5) for the salt flats and Los Colorados, payable in cash.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, the trip offers genuine opportunities to learn about local culture, see stunning landscapes, and enjoy the high-altitude environment. Guides often offer coca leaves and agua de flores to help with altitude adjustment, which many travelers found helpful.

A common note: this is a long day with a lot of driving, so patience and comfortable shoes are a must. The high elevation (over 4,200 meters) can cause dizziness or fatigue, so hydration and slow acclimatization are wise. Also, be prepared for some dirt roads—not all the roads are paved, which adds a touch of adventure but also makes for a bumpier ride.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you are someone who enjoys spectacular scenery, learning about local culture, and experiencing nature firsthand, this trip is ideal. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind spending a long day on a bus and are eager for a comprehensive look at northern Argentina’s highlights. The guide’s insights and well-planned stops add value, making it a good choice for those who want a guided experience rather than self-driving.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Salta offers a well-rounded glimpse of the region’s iconic landscapes. The Salinas Grandes salt flats are a centerpiece, offering a surreal, almost lunar landscape that’s unforgettable. The trip’s highlights—Seven Colors Hill and the chance to spot local wildlife—add layers of visual and cultural richness.

The guided aspect, with bilingual guides and knowledgeable drivers, makes this a comfortable way to cover a lot of ground without the stress of navigation. While the day is long, most travelers find it worth the effort, especially given the incredible views and photo opportunities.

If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and culturally immersive experience in northern Argentina, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s best for those who have a sense of adventure, a love of nature, and a willingness to spend hours in transit for the reward of seeing some of Argentina’s most unique landscapes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located accommodations in Salta.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 12.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Also, some cash (~$5) for entrance fees and snacks if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 due to the high altitude and long hours. The high elevation might also affect those with mobility issues.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, and reviews highlight their ability to give detailed explanations in both languages.

Can I hike at Los Colorados?
Yes, there is a short hike option, roughly 3 km, at Los Colorados, providing a chance for some light walking and wildlife spotting.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The landscapes, especially the salt flats and colorful mountains, are perfect for capturing memorable photos. Guides often assist with perspective shots.

To sum it up, this tour from Salta offers a thoughtfully designed day of exploration into some of the most striking landscapes in Argentina. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to see the salt flats, colorful mountains, and experience local culture, all with friendly guides and good logistical support. Be prepared for a long day, but rest assured, the sights will stay with you long after.

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